At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team to prepare and present delicious dishes while learning from experienced chefs.
- Company: Heritage Portfolio, a leading hospitality and event catering business in Scotland.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, gain a recognised qualification, and enjoy discounts on various services.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your culinary career with hands-on experience and support from industry professionals.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for food and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 13.45 - 13.45 £ per hour.
Location: Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, EH12 6TS
Working hours: 40hrs per week
Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days
Salary: £13.45 per hour
Qualification: Diploma in Professional Cookery at SCQF Level 5
Start Your Culinary Career with Heritage Portfolio
Finished school or college? Passionate about food and interested in becoming a chef? This is an opportunity to earn a wage, gain an industry-recognised qualification and develop practical kitchen skills within Heritage Portfolio, part of Sodexo Live!
As an Apprentice Commis Chef, you will work alongside experienced chefs across our leisure and event venues in Scotland. You will learn how to prepare, cook and present high-quality food while building the confidence, knowledge and experience needed to begin a successful career in hospitality.
You do not need to be an experienced chef. We are looking for someone with a genuine interest in food, a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
About the Apprenticeship
You will work towards a Chef Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5, delivered in partnership with MGT Training. The programme is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete. Upon successful completion, you will achieve a Diploma in Professional Cookery at SCQF Level 5 (GV6X 45).
Most of your development will take place in the kitchen as part of your normal working week. You will learn through practical experience, supported by your manager, workplace team and apprenticeship trainer.
Apart from your day-to-day kitchen experience, you may also have opportunities to take part in:
- Culinary masterclasses
- Cohort learning activities
- Workplace assessments
- Experience supporting events and different hospitality services
- Additional culinary development opportunities
What You’ll Gain
- A fully supported Chef Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5
- A Diploma in Professional Cookery at SCQF Level 5
- Paid experience within a professional kitchen team
- Practical training in food preparation, cooking and presentation
- Experience working across leisure, hospitality and event environments
- Support from experienced chefs, your manager and an apprenticeship trainer
- Opportunities to attend masterclasses, supplier visits and development activities
- The skills and confidence to progress your career with Heritage Portfolio and Sodexo
What You’ll Do Day to Day
You will work as part of a busy professional kitchen team, supporting the preparation and delivery of high-quality food for our customers, clients and event guests. Your responsibilities will include:
- Preparing ingredients, dishes and menu items under the guidance of experienced chefs
- Washing, chopping, weighing and portioning ingredients
- Learning how to cook and present food to the required standard
- Following menus, recipes and portion controls
- Supporting food production and service across leisure venues and events
- Preparing kitchen and service areas before busy periods
- Following food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures
- Checking food temperatures, labelling products and rotating stock correctly
- Keeping kitchen areas clean, safe and organised
- Using kitchen equipment and cleaning materials safely
- Reporting damaged equipment or maintenance issues to your manager
- Completing apprenticeship learning, training and workplace assessments
- Continuing to develop your culinary knowledge, practical skills and confidence
What We’re Looking For
You do not need previous professional kitchen experience. What matters most is your attitude, reliability and interest in learning. We are looking for someone who:
- Has a genuine interest in food and developing a career as a chef
- Is willing to work towards the Chef Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5
- Is curious, motivated and happy to learn through practical experience
- Can listen to instructions and ask questions when support is needed
- Enjoys working as part of a team
- Can remain positive and helpful during busy services
- Takes pride in completing tasks carefully and to a good standard
- Understands the importance of punctuality, reliability and personal presentation
- Is willing to follow food safety, health and safety and hygiene procedures
- Can work flexibly to support the needs of the venue and its events
Previous experience, work experience or study in catering, hospitality or food preparation would be helpful, but it is not essential.
Who Is This Opportunity For?
This apprenticeship could be right for you if you:
- Are aged 16 to 19 years old - In line with the Skills Development Scotland ‘Developing the Young Workforce: Scotland’s Youth Employment Strategy
- Have recently finished school or college and are deciding what to do next
- Want to earn money while gaining a recognised qualification
- Prefer practical learning to studying in a classroom full time
- Enjoy cooking, trying new foods or learning how dishes are made
- Want experience within leisure, events and professional hospitality
- Are looking for a supported first step into the workplace
- Want to build skills that could lead to a permanent chef position or further apprenticeship training
Perks of the Job
- “Perks at Work” platform, providing discounts on cinema, restaurants, retail and more
- Uniform and personal protective equipment provided
- Wellbeing and mental health support
- Learning and development opportunities
- Support from experienced culinary professionals
- Opportunities to gain experience across Heritage Portfolio venues and events
- A diverse and supportive working environment where your development matters
About Heritage Portfolio and Sodexo
Heritage Portfolio is one of Scotland’s leading hospitality and event catering businesses. We create memorable food and hospitality experiences across some of the country’s most distinctive leisure, cultural and event venues. As part of Sodexo Live!, we combine the creativity and personality of a specialist Scottish hospitality business with the career opportunities and support of a global organisation. At Heritage Portfolio and Sodexo, you will be part of a team that values inclusion, development and helping people grow their careers from the very beginning.
Apprentice Commis Chef employer: Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
Allscreens Nationwide is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive team culture where employees are valued and encouraged to thrive. With access to state-of-the-art training facilities and opportunities for career progression, our Automotive Glazing Technicians in Birmingham can expect not only competitive bonuses but also the chance to work with the latest technology in the industry. Join us and be part of a company that prioritises both employee well-being and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Commis Chef
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Commis Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Allscreens Nationwide Ltd and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
